We love what we do, and who we do it with.
We Are 7B Building & Development
We love what we do, and who we do it with.
Chad understands the importance of a solid foundation. That’s why he established 7B Building & Development on the bedstone of faith and family.
After graduating from Texas Tech University in 1991, Chad and his wife Donell raised their three boys, Derrick, Trey, and Jordan, who now serve as co-owners of the Merchant Family Companies. They credit the faithfulness of God that they can do what they love as a family.
When not working, Chad spends time with his seven grandkids or practicing his team roping skills.
Derrick oversees all 7B Building & Development divisions and the other Merchant Family Companies.
With a business degree from Lubbock Christian University, Derrick gives credit to his father Chad, for teaching him everything he knows about business & leadership over the last two decades. Derrick was a natural fit for the companies and assumed the CEO position three years ago. He and his wife, Tasha, have two boys, Malachi and Lincoln.
When not in the office, Derrick spends his time with his family, playing golf, hunting & watching Texas Tech athletics. With a heart for service, you can often find Derrick at his church or serving on the board of a faith-based ministry such as the Lubbock Christian University Business Board, Higher Ground Ministries, or Business Operation on Mission.
Following in the family's footsteps, Trey graduated from Texas Tech University in 2012.
He and his wife Corie have three children: twins Britton and Madden and daughter Sutton. His life is also rooted in faith and family. While he is the Director of Construction for 7B Building & Development, Trey's ultimate desire is to lead his children as a humble and godly father.
As a sports enthusiast, Trey enjoys golf, hunting, and watching his beloved Texas Tech basketball (Wreck ‘Em Tech!). He has combined his love of athletics and faith by sitting on the board of the Fellowship of Christian Athletes.
Jordan is a man who understands commitment.
As the President of Construction, he oversees each project from breaking ground to completion. Jordan married his high school sweetheart Taylor, and the two are raising their sons, Jaxson and Grayson.
When not on a job site, you can find Jordan playing basketball with his boys, fishing, or cheering on his, you guessed it, Texas Tech Red Raiders.
Mike comes to the 7B team with two decades of experience in real estate with companies like Dollar General, Family Dollar and Dollar Tree.
He and his wife Cindy reside in East Texas near Nacogdoches where they enjoy raising horses. When not showing ranch horses, the two love spending time with their ten grandchildren.
As members of the Corner Post Cowboy Church of Nacogdoches, Mike plays the mandolin and sings with the praise band. There isn’t much Mike can’t do, and we’re thankful to have him on our team.
Tyler Houk is the Chief Estimator for 7B Building & Development and 7B Commercial. Having been with the company since April 2014, Tyler started as a field superintendent before being promoted to Head Estimator. He spent seven years managing contracts, costs, and project bidding and budgeting in that role. In 2020, Tyler transitioned into the newly created role of Chief Estimator, where he built a team of estimators and significantly contributed to 7B's growth and profitability. He now oversees the Director of Estimating and focuses on big-picture cost control and client relations.
Tyler graduated from Texas Tech University in 2014 with two bachelor's degrees. He and his wife, Lauren, have two children: a daughter named Hadlee and a son named Jensen.
Tyler enjoys spending time with his family and friends, watching and attending sporting events, working out, and playing any sport. He is deeply faith and family-oriented and is always willing to go the extra mile for those he cares about.
Kent is President of Real Estate and handles development for all new sites.
Kent has over 20 years of real estate development and management experience throughout the West and Midwest for multiple retailers including Family Dollar, Dollar General, Stage, and Anthony’s.
Kent and his wife, Mary Ellen have 3 children and 7 grandchildren. They enjoy travel, regular family activities with their children and grandchildren and family visits to Walt Disney World. Kent is active in many local church activities and enjoys serving those around him.
As the Director of Estimating, Lea helps lead the estimating team through cost analysis and bid preparation, ensuring accurate estimates and competitive results. She is a strategic leader who drives efficiency and delivers value to every project.
Lea graduated with her bachelor’s degree from Texas Tech University in 2015 and was also a middle infielder for the Texas Tech Softball Team. If you know about our family commitment to Texas Tech athletics, you know how we feel about this line-item of her resume.
After earning her degree, Lea went on to play for the Team USA Women’s Baseball Team in 2016 and played in the Women’s Baseball World Cup in Gijang, South Korea. Lea enjoys spending time with her husband Ethan and daughter, Blair: watching or playing baseball, basketball and football. On weekends, Lea heads to the Bradley family ranch to spend time with family and in worship with God out in nature.
David graduated from Baylor University in 2010, surrounded by Red Raiders both at home and at work, and he holds tightly to his beloved green and gold! David continued his education with an MBA from Wayland Baptist University, graduating in 2014. Prior to joining 7B, he served in Controller/CFO roles in the Construction and Oil & Gas industries.
David and wife Ashlee (die-hard TTU alum) have two children, daughter Emme Kate and son Carter. In his personal time, David enjoys spending time with his family, playing golf, skiing, and traveling to places yet seen.
Jake is the Chief Financial Officer for Merchant Family Companies.
Jake graduated from Lubbock Christian University in 2010 where he played golf and earned a Bachelor of Business Administration. Jake’s greatest accomplishment during that time was meeting his wife Tori, who teaches in the education department at Texas Tech.
They have two children, a beautiful daughter Avery, and an exuberant son, Connor. Jake worked in Commercial Banking until 2021 when he joined the Merchant team.
The Mahans are active members at Hillside church in Lubbock and hope to share God’s love in every relationship they encounter.
Nathan is the Vice President of Construction for 7B Building and Development.
Nathan graduated from Stephen F. Austin State University with a Bachelor of Science. He then went on to get his Master of Management from Southern New Hampshire University. During college, he played Rugby, intramural sports, was head of finance for the Phi Kappa Psi Fraternity and was involved with the sustainability club.
Professionally, he has a background in Emergency Services, Facility Management, Construction, Customer Service, and Business Management. Nathan enjoys spending time with his wife, family, and friends, as well as golfing, mountain/road biking, scuba diving, time at his cabin, and training for triathlons. He attributes all his success to God, his amazing wife, and the love/support of his friends and family.
Jable “JT” Shelton is the President of Development for 7B Building and Development, LLC.
JT began his career in the commercial real estate arena in 2016 when he was asked to come on board his father’s law firm and earned his Texas Real Estate Agent License in 2018. Since then, JT has overseen hundreds commercial real estate development projects across the country.
JT enjoys his time off with his wife, Hannah, and their son, Quaid. When JT isn’t overseeing projects, he is either doing wood work, yard work, home renovations, or flying.
Kordell is another family-oriented member of our team.
A recent graduate, Kordell earned a degree in Business Management from Wayland Baptist University in 2020. With deep faith, Kordell strives to live his life devoted to the Lord.
He enjoys spending time with his family, playing golf, and watching any sports he can find.
Ray is a dynamic speaker, teacher, and coach. He inspires our team with his enthusiasm, energy, and faith in God.
After graduating from Sunset School of Preaching in 1991, Ray received a Master’s Degree from Lubbock Christian University in 2002. He has worked with churches in New Mexico and Texas and was an instructor at Sunset International Bible Institute as well as Lubbock Christian University. As a proud member of the John Maxwell Leadership Team, Ray has traveled the world working with groups and individuals in leadership and personal development.
He and his wife of 33 years, Sonya, have two daughters, Katelynn and Reagan. As an outdoor enthusiast, you can find Ray worshipping the Lord outside while running, riding four-wheelers, and hiking.
Kristilyn has the honor of leading the Team Experience Department (HR, Recruiting, and Training) for Merchant Family Companies.
She graduated with her bachelor's from Eastern New Mexico University in 2012 and then her Master's in Mathematics from Texas Tech in 2015. Kristilyn taught high school and college mathematics for seven years before transitioning into HR and leadership development.
She graduated with her bachelor's from Eastern New Mexico University in 2012 and then her Master's in Mathematics from Texas Tech in 2015. Kristilyn taught high school and college mathematics for seven years before transitioning into HR and leadership development.
Kristilyn enjoys spending time with her family and friends. She is blessed with her greatest support and husband, Johnny as well as three bonus children. Kristilyn enjoys anything outdoors and is a lifelong learner. Kristilyn loves serving the Lord and helping others.
Chris is the Assistant Controller for 7B Building and Development.
Chris graduated from Texas Tech University with a Bachelor’s in Business Administration in Accounting and Finance. Before joining 7B, he spent most of his career in public accounting, auditing financial statements, and preparing tax returns.
Chris and his wife, Alisha, have twin boys who keep him busy when he’s not in the office. He enjoys watching and coaching them in various sports, as they play travel baseball, basketball, flag football, and soccer. Chris also enjoys traveling on road trips, going to the beach, and watching Texas Tech.
Jable Keith Shelton, Esquire, is the Chief Legal Officer for all of the Merchant Family Companies.
Ever comfortable around numbers, Keith obtained his BSE-Mathematics degree from Delta State University in 1978. While managing his employee benefits consulting firm, Keith enrolled in Mississippi College’s School of Law, where he obtained his Juris Doctor degree in 1988. In 1989, Keith was admitted to practice law before the federal and state courts of the state of Mississippi.
Over the years, Keith has also enjoyed international experience representing his clients before business firms in Panama, Bermuda, and the United Arab Emirates. As recently as 2010, he brought his business experience and legal perspective to bear for Alliance Trust Company, where he now sits on the Board of Managers for one of the largest independent trust companies in Nevada.
Keith has gained nationwide recognition as a featured speaker having given talks on Estate Planning and Asset Protection Planning using strategic business entities at advanced estate and asset protection planning seminars at Lake Tahoe, Reno, Las Vegas, Nevada, Lubbock, Texas, Jackson, Mississippi, and Memphis and Nashville, Tennessee.
Keith now resides in Lubbock and is married to a world-recognized artist, Cynara, and they have two adult children, JT and Landon, who both also work for the Merchant Family Companies.
Bre graduated from Texas Tech and is a Red Raider to her core. Bre and her husband, Chris, have three daughters, Peyton, Kendall, and Kennedy. On the weekend, you will most likely find Bre enjoying all things Texas Tech, from track to football!
Trevor graduated with his bachelor's degree from McMurry University in 2014. After trying his hand in the restaurant industry, Trevor entered the construction industry, starting as a superintendent and working his way up the ladder by being promoted to a Junior Estimator and Project Manager. Today, he serves as the Vice President of Construction for 7B Building & Development and manages several commercial projects.
Aaron, a Dallas-Fort Worth native, is an Estimator for 7B and brings hands-on experience and strategic insights to the construction industry, particularly in roofing. Currently pursuing a degree in Construction Engineering at Texas Tech University, Aaron is passionate about translating classroom knowledge into real-world applications. With a focus on innovation and cultural competence, he aims to leverage his skills to build a better world for everyone.
Tristan recently graduated from Lubbock Christian University with a Bachelor's in Business Management. Tristan began working for 7B during his junior year of college as the estimating intern & upon graduation, he took on a full-time estimating position.
Tristan is married to Holland Baker who he met at LCU & according to him, convincing her to say yes is his biggest achievement in life so far. Tristan also has a love for sports & the outdoors so when he’s not with Holland, you will most likely find him golfing, disc golfing, or hanging with the guys around a campfire.
Kyle is the Lead Construction Estimator for 7B Building and Development. He graduated from Abilene Christian University with a Bachelor's of Business Administration. He has prior experience as an estimator and project manager for a civil construction company in the Marble Falls area.
Kyle enjoys hiking, running, hunting, fishing, and preaching. On the weekends, Kyle spends time with his friends and family.
Born in Atlanta, Georgia, and raised in Louisiana, Kiara is settling into life with her family in Lubbock, Texas. She has been happily married to her husband, Tim, since 2012, and together, they have two amazing children, TJ and Olivia. She graduated from Southern University and A&M College with a Bachelor's degree in Criminal Justice and Political Science. With 10 years of experience in accounting, she has developed a strong professional background in the field.
In her free time, she enjoys indulging in her passions for music, being near the water, jogging, or taking long walks. She's also an avid reader, particularly enjoying mystery novels and self-help books.
Keila was born in Baltimore, Maryland, and raised in Greensboro, North Carolina. She now enjoys a fulfilling life with her loving family. Her family includes her 10-year-old son, adorable fluffy dog, and devoted husband. They share a passion for exploration, often embarking on exciting travels, hikes, and outdoor grilling adventures.
In 2021, they moved to Lubbock, Texas, and have been immensely grateful for the warm and welcoming people they've encountered.
Keila spends her weekends having quality family time, featuring lively board game nights, leisurely park strolls with their dog, and spirited soccer games.
Christine is the Office Coordinator and Construction Assistant at 7B Building & Development. She joined the team in June of 2022.
Prior to that, Christine worked as a Service Access Manager for a community action agency. Before that, she helped her parents run their businesses for almost ten years until they retired; her mother’s Mexican restaurant and her father’s mechanic shop.
Christine is from the small town of Crosbyton, TX. She is heavily involved in her community and always willing to help those in need. She has three adult children and two grandsons. She loves her children, but her grandsons are the keepers of her heart. She spends most of her free time with her family, cooking alongside her mom.
Randell is a Project Manager for 7B Building & Development. Born and raised across several ranches throughout New Mexico, Randell attended New Mexico Military Institute for high school. He then attended Texas Tech University, obtaining his bachelor’s in business management and a minor in political science in 2020.
Since graduating from Texas Tech, Randell has been involved in multiple construction faucets. From gravel mining to utilities, he thrives off learning all he can and pushing himself and those around him to be the best they can be.
When not in the office, Randell spends his free time with his fiancé Kippi and their two dogs, Zoe & Zeke. He enjoys playing the piano, golfing in the summer, and snowboarding in the winter. He thanks his family, friends, and God for all his success!
Kaitlyn serves as Accounts Receivable Clerk for 7B Building and Development. She grew up in the small town of Ballinger, Texas. Kaitlyn has been in the title industry since 2018 and loves the high intensity. You can find Kaitlyn hanging out with family and friends in her spare time. When time allows, she also loves to travel, kayak, or be outdoors.
Pam is the Construction AP Manager for 7B. She has worked in accounting for 7+ years and loves the attention to detail the job requires. She loves getting to know all the Merchants and the family in this building. She is a Lubbock-ite, born and raised, who graduated from Frenship High School, where she met her husband of 15 years. Her miracle baby, Taygan, is 12 years old but is as tall as a grown man. She enjoys spending time with her family and baking for everyone. The accounting department always gets the best goodies.
Faith graduated with an AAT degree from South Plains College and is currently working on a Business Management Degree at Wayland Baptist University.
Before working here, Faith taught Pre-K for four years and found that her true purpose was to work in Human Resources.
Faith loves education and learning! She spends her weekends and free time serving at her church, reading books, playing instruments, and spending time with my Husband of 2 years, Lyrical, and 3 fur babies, Chewy, Zorro, and Apollo.
Amber Maynard was born in Lubbock, Texas, and has loved Lubbock her whole life. Although she lived in Central Texas for many years, she could not stay away from West Texas for long.
She joined 7B in December 2023 and has loved it. She loves working with the 7B family every day!
Amber met the love of her life in 1992, and the two got married in 2005! They have six kids together and nine and a half grandchildren. Her greatest passion and hobby is her precious grandkids!!! Amber's grandpa and dad have always said that life wouldn't be worth living without family! Amber and her husband have embraced that as they have watched her grandparents, who have been married for over 60 years, and her parents, who have been married 53 years and counting, live their lives for all of them!
Matthew Young, a driven professional with a remarkable academic and athletic background from Las Cruces, NM, is known for his dedication and diverse interests. During his collegiate journey at Texas Tech University from 2021 to 2023, he achieved dual master's degrees, one in Teaching/Coaching and one in Business Administration, while making significant contributions to the football field. Simultaneously, he obtained a bachelor's degree in Business Marketing from New Mexico State University during his tenure from 2017 to 2021.
Now, in the Business Development department at 7B Building and Development, Matthew leverages his multifaceted skill set to foster growth and drive results. He brings a passion for cultivating relationships, honed through his experience in collegiate athletics and marketing internships. Outside of work, Matthew enjoys a variety of hobbies, including golfing, hunting, lifting weights, traveling, reading, cooking, and spending time with family. He particularly enjoys NFL Sundays, College Football Saturdays, and moments spent walking his dog or tossing the football with his nephews.
James is currently the Director of Construction at 7B since February 2024. He served seven years as a Firefighter/Paramedic for the City of Lubbock. From there, he moved into a role as a project manager for a land development and commercial construction company. He enjoys every aspect of the ground-up construction process. Outside of work, James enjoys spending time with his wife, Tiffany, and their daughters, Lillian and Abigail. They enjoy spending time outdoors and serving in their church.
Jamie serves as the Title Manager with 7B. She has an associate's degree in Paralegal Studies from South Plains College. Jamie spent ten years refining her Civil Litigation Paralegal skills before joining the 7B Building & Development family. She is fascinated with the history buried in the title work of commercial real estate and development and loves that no piece of land or project is the same. She is always learning something new!
Cassandra earned her bachelor's degree in Business Management from Southern Nazarene University, where she continued her education and received her Master of Business Administration (MBA) in 2023.
She finds fulfillment in her faith, spending quality time with family/friends, and exploring the world. Cassandra cherishes moments with her loved ones and eagerly embraces new adventures. Balancing her passions with a love for travel, she seeks to positively impact her journey and the lives of those around her.
Madalyn serves as the Engineer Coordinator and Executive Assistant to the President of Real Estate. She was born and raised in Lubbock, Texas. Madalynn graduated from Lubbock Christian University in 2023, where she played soccer and received her Bachelor's in Marketing. She enjoys running, traveling, and spending time with friends, but most of all, she enjoys spending time with her husband, Carter, and her family at the ranch.
Jennifer is a mama to six kids. She has been married to her husband, Josh, for ten years. She grew up in Lubbock but was born in Springfield, Ohio. She is the AP Clerk for 7B and joined the team at the end of February this year. She is very passionate about her family and her love for coffee. She is known for being very witty and loud. She does not do much outside of family things, but she does enjoy cooking and baking! She also dabbles in T-shirt and tumbler crafts.
Christa graduated with a BBA in Management from West Texas A&M University.
She has been happily married to Chris for 22 years, but the two have been together for 25 years. Together, they have two children, Kade and McKenzie, but their pride and joys are Bud and Shae, their two rescue dogs.
In 2023, they became Meme and Topher to Greyson Bo! They love spending time with him and enjoy it when they have him over for sleepovers.
During the summer months, you can find them at the lake. When they are not at the lake, you can find them at Home Depot because they always have some house remodeling project going on. They love going camping, attending concerts, and spending time with family and friends.
Nita serves as the Recruitment Coordinator for 7B. She has 30+ years of experience in Human Resource Management and holds a PHR certification. Nita's passion in recruiting is finding the right person for the position, being a part of their growth and development, and watching them soar to new heights.
Nita grew up in Phoenix, Arizona, where she enjoyed Barrel Racing and was a Rodeo Queen. She married her high school sweetheart, Bill, in 2016. They now live in Lubbock and enjoy their blended family with four children and ten grandkids. Nita is an active member of St. Stephen's Episcopal Church. In her free time, she and Bill love traveling, attending music concerts and sporting events and enjoying time at home with family and their three dogs.
Fun Fact: She loves the smell of orange blossoms and thinks everyone should have a palm tree in their yard.
We Are Always Looking for New Additions to the Family!
Brand Promise
On Time. On Budget. Excellent Communication.
Our Purpose
To build the kingdom of God by building people, projects and our community.
Our Values
LOVE
…people like Jesus does.
01
GRIND
The gift is in the grind.
02
FUN
We like to celebrate wins.
03
TEAM
Because God built our team, we will win.
04
DO
…the next right thing.
05
FAST
We build fast.
06
LIFT
We lift people up.
